As Head of Science, I am extremely proud to be leading and managing a popular and high achieving faculty. Science has built a reputation for excellent levels of achievement and the provision of a rigorous, enjoyable and challenging learning experience that develops students’ potential. Science is a large, enthusiastic department consisting of 20 teaching staff, 5 full time technicians and 5 learning support assistants. The management structure consists of the Head of Faculty, 3 Assistant Heads of Faculty in charge of Key Stages 3, 4 and 5. Heads of Key stage 3 and 4 have Assistants and there is also an Applied Science Co-ordinator. There are 16 laboratories, 10 of which have been built in the last 6 years, an ICT suite, 2 prep rooms, further storage, a faculty office and a working room. 

Indeed, Science enjoys a high profile within school. Hanson recently reapplied and achieved Technology College status where Science is prominent subject that was classified by HMI as having ‘outstanding leadership’.  Results have continued to improve over the past 3 years, in 2005 the Science faculty achieved its highest results at KS3 of 74%. At GCSE, all students follow a double award Science course (Modular or Applied), for the last 2 years achieving a pass rate (A* - C) of 50% or above, and 100% of students achieving grade G or above. Many students then choose to continue studying Science subjects at KS5.  At A-level results are very good and every year a high number of students continue with the Science related subjects at university, with 4 students this year gaining places to study medicine.  

Our vision…
The Science Faculty are extremely forward thinking, following successful results at Key Stage 3 and 4 the decision has been made to deliver KS3 over 2 years, culminating with the Sat exam in Year 8. This will begin in September 2006 and will allow Year 9 students to progress onto their GCSE course in Year 9, September 2007. There is a range of alternative pathways suitable for different learning styles and abilities that students can follow, resulting in the majority of students achieving 3 GCSE’s in Science as out lined below;

 These provides a range of stimulating courses suitable for all students and the ability to move some students into other options at the end of each year depending on their progress, approach to Science and future career path. 

Achievement is celebrated with high achievement displays, high effort and attainment at Key Stage 3 and 4 are recognised using Hanson’s reward scheme, postcards and letters are also sent home to further recognise and reward progress of students who have achieved examination success and exceeded target grades. However, there is no room for complacency. The faculty is committed to further raising standards and enhancing students learning.  With the opportunities afforded by the Building Schools for the Future project, this is an exciting time for the school and the faculty.   We look to establish the faculty as a centre of excellence, committed to the sharing of best practice and the development of innovative approaches to teaching and learning. 

I hope you feel that the Hanson Science Faculty could offer an exciting career opportunity and job satisfaction.   

Ruth Whitehead
HEAD OF SCIENCE

 

Biology